Petrov was diagnosed with the condition just over four months ago, after which followed his immediate withdrawal from first-team duties.

And, despite him being unable to play any part in the past few months, new manager Paul Lambert has insisted that Petrov will continue as official club captain, with Darren Bent filling in as his deputy.

A statement on the club's official website declared that Petrov "would like to express his deep gratitude to the medical staff who have looked after him so well since his condition was diagnosed just over four months ago".

The statement continued: "He also wishes to place on record again his profound sense of appreciation for the incredible outpouring of love and support he has received from Villa fans, his team-mates and colleagues at the club, as well as football fans and many more people around the world during this period.

"He and his family have been moved by the depth of feeling stirred in so many people and he has taken great strength from it, too.

"Stan's fight is not over. There will be further battles to overcome in the days, weeks and months ahead.

"But he would like to share with you this tremendous news now and, in time, deliver his own personal message to you.

"On Stan's behalf, the club would like to thank everybody for continuing to respect Stan's privacy and his family's throughout his ongoing battle against acture leukaemia and for those who have raised awareness of the condition.